Cervical disc replacement, also referred to as total disc arthroplasty, is a procedure aimed at removing a damaged cervical disc and then replacing it with an artificial disc device. Cervical discs are situated between the vertebra of the neck in the spine. They act as a cushion, absorbing shock in your neck. When these discs become damaged or displaced, it puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain. In some cases, it can also cause muscle spasms or numbness in the arms.
Cervical discs can come damaged through trauma or degeneration. Degeneration can be caused by disease such as arthritis or can simply be a consequence of aging. The initial treatments for symptoms of displaced cervical discs are physical therapy, medication, and potentially spinal injections. The treatment process is dependent upon what your doctor assesses is the best course of action for your condition.
If your neck pain does not ease considerably within 6-12 weeks, cervical disc replacement surgery may be considered. During surgery, your surgeon removes the disc that is pinching the nerve or applying pressure on the spinal cord. Where the disc is located determines how the surgeon goes about the procedure. Your surgeon may remove the cervical disc through a small incision in the front of your neck, which is called an anterior discectomy. If they remove the disc through a small incision in the back of your neck, the procedure is called a posterior discectomy.
Your doctor may also choose to perform a microdiscectomy. This is when the damaged disc is removed through a smaller incision than the options above, with the assistance of a microscope or other magnifying device.
Once the damaged disc is removed, it is replaced with an artificial cervical disc. The artificial disc is made of metal, but it looks and moves very similarly to an actual cervical disc.
Patients are typically discharged the same day, or the morning following surgery. Patients are asked to wear a neck collar for up to a week in order to limit neck mobility. Pain from the surgery should wear off between two to three days. Recovery times vary based on the patient’s lifestyle. Individuals with office jobs or who perform light work can typically return to their jobs within a week or two after surgery. Patients with more strenuous jobs, such as construction, must exercise more caution. It may take them up to 6 weeks before being medically cleared to return to work.
About four weeks post-operation, your doctor may advise you to participate in a physical therapy program to strengthen the neck and regain flexibility. If you are interested in cervical disc replacement, reach out to Arlington Orthopedic! Our spine specialists are well-versed in cervical disc replacements and would be more than happy to schedule a consultation with you.
